Indiana 2026 Primary Election: Fifth Congressional District

Candidates vie for the Republican and Democratic nominations in the race for Indiana's 5th Congressional District

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:55pm

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The race for Indiana's 5th Congressional District is heating up, with incumbent Republican Rep. Victoria Spartz facing a series of Democratic challengers as well as a Republican challenger in the May primary election. The Democratic candidates include small business owner Steve Avit, State Senator J.D. Ford, National Guard member Jackson Franklin, farmer Phill Goss, community advocate Dylan McKenna, and former Army Reserve member Deborah Pickett. The Republican challenger is Scott King.

Why it matters

The 5th Congressional District race will be a key battleground in Indiana's 2026 primary elections, with the winner likely to have a strong advantage in the general election. The outcome could shift the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives, making it an important race to watch.

The details

The Democratic candidates bring a diverse set of backgrounds and policy priorities to the race. Steve Avit, a small business owner and healthcare professional, is focused on lowering costs and protecting Social Security. J.D. Ford, the first openly LGBTQ+ member of the Indiana General Assembly, aims to address healthcare, childcare, and energy issues. Jackson Franklin, a National Guard member, wants to reduce corporate influence in politics. Phill Goss, a family farmer, prioritizes freedom, fairness, and accountability. Dylan McKenna, a 'boring dad,' is concerned about representation and community values. Deborah Pickett, a veteran, seeks smart policy and effective government. On the Republican side, incumbent Rep. Victoria Spartz is running on a platform of limited government and fiscal conservatism, while challenger Scott King wants to embrace the district's residents and be a good example for the country.

  • Hoosiers are able to register to vote for the 2026 Primary Election through April 6.
  • The primary election is scheduled for May 2026.

The players

Steve Avit

A small business owner, healthcare professional, and father who is running as a Democratic candidate for Indiana's 5th Congressional District seat.

J.D. Ford

An Indiana State Senator for District 29 who is running for the Democratic nomination for Indiana's 5th Congressional District seat. He is the first openly LGBTQ+ member of the Indiana General Assembly.

Jackson Franklin

A Muncie resident who serves in the Indiana Army National Guard and is running for the Democratic nomination for Indiana's 5th Congressional District seat.

Phill Goss

A Noblesville resident who operates a family farm near Fort Wayne and is running for the Democratic nomination for Indiana's 5th Congressional District seat.

U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind. District 5

The Republican incumbent who is running for reelection to the 5th Congressional District seat, known for her fiscal conservative approach and limited government policies.

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What they’re saying

“I believe leadership should be grounded in real-world experience, integrity and common sense — and that elected officials should answer to the people they represent.”

— Steve Avit, Democratic Candidate

“Our democracy is too important to allow Victoria Spartz and the Republican Party to continue selling us to the highest bidder.”

— Phill Goss, Democratic Candidate

“Less government, more freedom.”

— U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind. District 5

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The 5th Congressional District race in Indiana will be a closely watched contest, with the winner likely to have a strong advantage in the general election. The diverse set of candidates on the Democratic side and the incumbent Republican's focus on limited government provide voters with clear choices on the direction they want to see for the district and the country.